Dobyns-Bennett linemen sign with ETSU, UVa-Wise

TANNER COOK, tcook@johnsoncitypress.com
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Feb 7, 2018 at 8:07 PM

KINGSPORT — The offensive line was arguably the lifeblood of the Dobyns-Bennett football team last fall, and on Wednesday inside the D-B alumni room, two of the seniors signed to continue their careers at the collegiate level.

Dawson Pierson will attend East Tennessee State, and Drew Christian signed with the University of Virginia’s College at Wise.

Pierson, 6-foot-2, 260 pounds, was named to the Tennessee Football Coaches Association all state team on the offensive side of the ball at center. He also played on defense and had 64 career tackles, five sacks and 15 tackles for a loss. He also tallied a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and one blocked kick.

Pierson was named an All Big East Scholar Athlete and was voted the most valuable player by his teammates.

“I think it was the right decision for me,” Pierson said. “I’ve been with ETSU since the beginning, and it’s the best place for me to continue my academic career as well.”

Christian started at right guard for the Indians and had 33 pancake blocks this season with 26 blocks that led to touchdowns. He was named first team All Big East on the offensive line and was voted a captain by his teammates.

For his career, he finished with 53 pancake blocks and 44 blocks that led to touchdowns.

“Both of our offensive linemen are outstanding,” Dobyns-Bennett head coach Graham Clark said. “I feel like if they were an inch or two taller, they’d have multiple offers right now. They’ve only been signed for about five minutes, and I already miss them.”

There are three more Dobyns-Bennett signings scheduled for Thursday.

Phillip Burdge will sign with the Lee University soccer program. Kaitlyn Adams is signing with Montreat soccer and Lily Griffith is slated to join the Milligan women’s basketball program.